Is your furniture damaged by mold? Follow these tips to salvage your wooden furniture and take care of your health.
Mold is a pervasive household problem that can prove disastrous for wooden surfaces. Mold usually grows on wooden surfaces when you place them in a dark and damp area, such as your basement. If you want to salvage your furniture from mold, follow these steps:
Step 1: Protective Measures
Your safety should be the first priority during the mold removal process. Make sure you have the protective gear before attempting to remove mold. Wear safety goggles, rubber gloves, and most importantly, an air mask to avoid inhaling mold spores into your lungs. When using a cleaning solution containing bleach, use protective outerwear to protect your clothes from stains.
Step 2: Use a Vacuum Cleaner to Eliminate Mold Spores
Vacuum the wooden surfaces using a machine with an HEPA filter to trap any mold spores and other debris and dirt. After vacuuming, empty the vacuum canister or bag into a plastic container outside the home. Seal tightly before disposing of the plastic container or bag.
Step 3: Clean using Water and Soap
Mold shouldn’t be able to penetrate your wooden furniture if its stained or painted. A mild cleaning solution, including mild water and detergent, should be sufficient for effective removal. Use a soft-bristled scrub brush to wipe the solution from the wooden furniture.
If the problem persists, try a more effective mold killer, that is, vinegar. Pour vinegar in a spray bottle, apply it on the affected surfaces, and leave it there for over an hour. Then, use a clean, damp towel to wipe the surfaces and see the magic happen.
Step 4: Apply Diluted Bleach
If, however, mold has already penetrated the wooden surface, you’re going to need a solution that’s capable of killing mold spores beneath the surface. Apply a solution that contains 20 parts warm water, 10 parts bleach, and 1-part detergent onto the affected area using a stiff-bristled brush or a scrub sponge. Then, allow the surface to dry.
Step 5: Use Sandpaper
In case you fail to eliminate mold even despite following step 4, consider using sandpaper to reach the mold that has penetrated the surface. Apply sandpaper gently around the moldy area until mold is completely eliminated.
Then, refinish the wood to prevent future mold outbreaks as well as to improve the look of the furniture. Finally, dispose of all rags or clothes used to remove or clean mold and look for ways to eliminate moisture issues from the area.
While cleaning up the mold yourself is possible, if you’re facing serious moisture related issues at home, seek professional help to get rid of the problem.
